2 came forward for salvation on Sunday.
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
ONE VOTE
History is filled with powerful reminders that a single vote can change the course of nations, communities, and lives. For instance, in 1800, it was just one vote in the U.S. House of Representatives that broke a tie and placed Thomas Jefferson in the presidency over Aaron Burr, shaping the nation’s path forward. Similarly, in 1845, one vote in the U.S. Senate brought Texas into the Union, expanding America’s borders and influencing its future development. Even internationally, the impact of one vote is monumental: in 1923, a single vote secured Adolf Hitler’s leadership in the Nazi Party, setting off a series of events that forever changed world history. These moments emphasize the power that lies in each individual’s vote—whether on a national stage or a local one, your vote is a powerful influence in shaping the world around you.
Voting is more than just casting a ballot; it’s a way to take an active role in the future of our society. In 1920, Tennessee’s legislature passed the 19th Amendment by just one vote, giving women across America the right to vote and marking a monumental step toward equality. In 1959, Hawaii’s statehood came down to one vote in Congress, officially welcoming it as the 50th state. And in the 2000 U.S. presidential election, a few hundred votes in Florida determined the presidency in one of the closest races in history, highlighting the importance of each and every vote. By voting, you’re honoring the legacy of those who fought for this right and fulfilling a responsibility that impacts our communities, our country, and our world. Don’t underestimate the influence you hold—your single vote can shape policies, protect freedoms, and inspire future generations. Voting is your voice, your power, and your part in the ongoing story of democracy.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
THE URGENCY OF TODAY
Philippians 3:14 , “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
Paul’s journey was marked by a sense of urgency, a conviction that drove him to press forward with purpose and perseverance.
He knew the calling of Christ wasn’t something to put off until tomorrow, but a pressing, daily pursuit.
For Paul, every day was an opportunity to grow closer to God, to shed the past, and to pursue the eternal prize that lay before him.
There was no room for complacency; he was committed to living fully for Christ, regardless of the challenges he faced.
This same urgency is a call to each of us.
Sometimes, we find ourselves waiting for the “perfect” moment to step out in faith, to deepen our prayer life, or to surrender completely.
Maybe we think, “I’ll do it when things settle down,” or “I’ll focus on God more next week.”
But in doing so, we miss out on the transformation, growth, and purpose that God has for us today.
The reality is, there’s no guarantee of tomorrow, and each day is an irreplaceable opportunity to draw closer to God, to fulfill our purpose, and to let Him shape us more into His likeness.
The Christian life is not about coasting or “getting by”; it’s about running the race with our eyes fixed on Jesus.
Think of an athlete who trains diligently, not waiting for the “right” moment, but seizing each day to strengthen and prepare for the goal.
This is how we are called to live—not with passivity but with the passion and commitment that flows from a love for Christ.
We’re called to push past distractions, to leave excuses behind, and to choose growth and surrender over comfort and complacency.
Ask yourself: Are there areas in my life where I’ve delayed obedience, put off growth, or avoided God’s calling?
Maybe there’s a step of faith you know He’s been asking you to take, a habit He’s calling you to surrender, or a relationship He’s urging you to restore.
Perhaps it’s as simple as making time to be in His Word daily, to listen for His voice, or to serve others with the gifts He’s given you.
The urgency of today calls us to let go of “someday” and embrace the calling He has for us right now.
As Paul pressed forward, he left behind his past failures, fears, and insecurities, focusing instead on what lay ahead.
Living with this mindset frees us from the weight of yesterday and empowers us to pursue the incredible future God has prepared for us.
Imagine standing before God, seeing the fullness of His glory, and knowing that every choice you made today was a step closer to Him.
This is the prize we press toward—a life lived with God, for God, and in God’s presence forever.
Don’t wait for tomorrow to start living fully for Christ.
Today is the day to deepen your relationship, to pursue His calling, and to grow in the areas He’s pointing out to you.
With each step of obedience, you’re building a life that reflects His love and grace, impacting not only your journey but the lives of those around you.
When we live with urgency, we live with purpose, knowing that each day is a precious gift to glorify Him.
PRAYER
Father, thank You for calling me to a life of purpose and passion in You. Stir in my heart a renewed sense of urgency to follow You wholeheartedly today. Show me where I’ve delayed or resisted, and help me to leave behind anything that distracts me from pressing forward in faith. Let me walk each day with a clear focus on Your calling, empowered by Your Spirit, and full of the love and grace You pour out on me. May I live today and every day with the commitment and joy of a life fully surrendered to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
THURSDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Freddie May in passing of his Mom
Danny Jarrard – Riverside In Covington
David Newby
Amy Garner’s Mom
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Ben Bruce
Carol Lawhead
Darlene Wiggins
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donna Plunkett’s Brother in law
Donnie Butler’s Dad
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ellen Boyd
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gail Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
Joanie/Jeanie Mom
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain
Kim McClain’s Mother
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lee Cronan
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Lonzo Christin
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Marynell Ford
Matt Barron’s Mother
Maureen Brown
Michael Stanley
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Sarah Parker
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Witcher